Renée

Childhood

Renée Michèle Pretz Pernice was born April 28, 1973 in Kansas City, Kansas. Renée greatly enjoyed the special bond she had with her big sister Lisa. She also enjoyed the closeness of her family and extended family. Renée was always an exceptional student. She graduated valedictorian of her class in 1991 and received a four year scholarship from the Hall Foundation. Renée attended the University of Kansas and earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in 1996.

Career

Upon graduation, she became an emergency room nurse at Saint Luke’s Hospital. Renée loved the challenge and variety of the ER. She remained in the Saint Luke’s system her entire life. In December, 2007, Renée received her Masters of Science in Nursing from the University of Missouri, Kansas City – a very proud day for her entire family and no small accomplishment as she also worked and raised two small sons while her husband was deployed in Iraq. She immediately began her dream job as an instructor at Saint Luke’s College of Health Sciences.

Family

Renée married in May, 1999 and had two children – Joey and Nicholas. Renée loved being a mother and juggling a busy work and social schedule. She really enjoyed planning and doing things with Joey and Nicholas. She was involved in their school and sports activities. She enjoyed making home improvements herself. Over the years she installed many upgrades to her home. Renée was a practical, multi-talented, and organized lady. She built a good life for her family. Tragically, in January, 2009 Renée died a victim of domestic violence at the hands of her husband. Renée was initiating their divorce at the time. Everyone who knew Renée was devastated. Her sons were 8 and 6 at the time. Renée’s mother and step-father, Linda and Doug Lockwood became the boys’ guardians in July, 2009. Adjusting to a new life without parents and under such disturbing circumstances was extremely difficult for the boys. Renée’s dad and step-mom, Rick and Nancy Pretz, along with sister, Lisa Mooney and husband Jeff also surrounded the boys with love and comfort. Renée’s extended family including step-brother and step-sister-in-law Kevin and Jennifer Lockwood, nieces, nephews and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends comforted each other and the rest of the extended family. Renée’s life story was full of accomplishment and acts of love toward her family, friends, and students. Her future was bright. She is remembered and greatly missed.